Did you know that continued education is the key to higher levels of personal and operational professionalism? Studies show that the majority of aviation maintenance technicians are typically not trained in soft skills such as communications, team work, decision making, human factors, and leadership. Those kinds of skills are not required by the CFRs or to become an A&P mechanic. But those skills are the cornerstone to becoming a more effective mechanic.

Coursework in these skills can build respect, professionalism, confidence, and increased safety. It’s good for the individual mechanic as well as the organization where you work. Try to take at least one course a year at a community college or university. As a professional, it just isn’t possible to have too much education. Education sometimes pays off in mysterious ways.

The FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) is committed to helping you achieve the highest level of safety by providing "tools" and resources to enhance your knowledge and proficiency. For more information on maintenance safety, go to the Maintenance Hangar on FAASafety.gov at http://faasafety.gov/AMT/pub/mh.aspx.